Frequently
Asked Questions
How
does taking a distance learning course online work?
Are there any attendance requirements?
What kind of computer do I need?
What if I don't know much about computers?
What if I have problems with my computer?
Can I only take a single course?
If there is more than one college offering the same
course which one do I take?
What if my college does not offer the course I want
but another college does?
Can I get the whole degree online?
How do I pay for the courses?
How do I get more help?
Is distance learning right for me?
Where to Begin
How
does taking a distance learning course online work?
These are the same courses you would take if you went to the classroom,
often taught by the same instructors. They are asynchronous (you do
not have to be online at any specific time). Courses are set up according
to a semester schedule with due dates for readings from a regular
textbook you purchase, assignments, and discussions that are done
online.
top
Are
there any attendance requirements?
You will be attending through your computer. You do not have to physically
be on campus. There are course requirements for participation, usually
several times a week but on your own time. New York State attendance
records are kept weekly to determine financial aid eligibility.
top
What
kind of computer do I need?
You should have a Pentium PC or MAC using System 7 or newer with word
processing software such as MS Word 6.0 or higher, and a dependable
Internet provider. Some courses may have additional software requirements.
top
What
if I don't know much about computers?
You don't have to be an expert but you should have basic computer
skills such as word processing and some experience using the Internet.
You will receive instructions and a password so that you can access
your course on an Internet website. You will quickly learn how to
navigate the consistent components of
each module.
top
What
if I have problems with my computer?
You should always have a backup, either by using a computer on campus,
public library, or a friend's. You will also have access to a Help
Desk to answer technical questions within the course.
top
Can
I only take a single course?
Yes. Select the course you wish to take and contact that college regarding
registration. They will inform you of the steps to take to log into
your course and get started.
top
If
there is more than one college offering the same course which one
do I take?
Select the college from which you may get a degree and take that course.
Courses may be transferable from one college to another.
top
What
if my college does not offer the course I want but another college
does?
You can take the course you want at the other college and transfer
it back to the college you are attending. Make sure that it fits your
degree program.
top
Can
I get the whole degree online?
It depends. Colleges have limits of how many courses you can transfer
IN. Contact the college to which you are applying (matriculating)
so that you can set up a program of online courses that will fulfill
the degree requirements.
top
How
do I pay for the courses?
You will owe tuition and fees to the college offering the course.
If you are a child care worker you may be eligible for EIP (Educational
Incentive Program). Go to www.tsg.suny.edu
If you are a matriculated student and have been accepted into a degree
program, you may be eligible for financial aid. Contact your local
college.
It may be possible to be matriculated at one college and take an online
course from another in the consortium. Contact your local college.
top
How
do I get more help?
Each of the colleges listed in this brochure has a person who can
help you with the process of selecting classes, registering, paying,
and getting started. After you begin a course, your instructor will
be able to assist you.
top
Is
distance learning right for me?
Online courses are solutions for people who have busy schedules. They
can be especially useful for center-based and family childcare providers
who work long hours. Distance learning is for students who are motivated,
self-disciplined, work well independently, and are comfortable using
a computer.
top
Where
to Begin
o Research the various colleges for the degree or course/s that you
want
o Contact that college regarding the registration process
o Apply for college financial aid or EIP (Education Incentive Program)
o If you are taking courses from other colleges and transferring them
in, be sure the receiving college will accept them in lieu of their
courses
top